5kW Solar System in the Philippines
5kW is the size where solar starts replacing your Meralco bill instead of just chipping at it. Run aircon during the day, charge a battery overnight for evening usage, and still export surplus to the grid for net-metering credits. This page covers what 5kW actually offsets, the parts list, and realistic payback math.
What 5kW delivers in PH conditions
At 4-4.5 peak sun hours and 75% efficiency, a 5kW array generates roughly 18-22 kWh per day — about 550-650 kWh per month. That covers a full Metro Manila household with one or two inverter aircons running through the day, plus all standard appliances (fridge, fans, lights, TV, laptops, washing machine).
At April 2026 Meralco rates of P14.35/kWh, 600 kWh of avoided consumption is P8,600+ in monthly savings. See the rate hike breakdown for current numbers.
Bill of materials for a 5kW hybrid build
- Panels: 10 x 500W or 9 x 600W tier-1 PERC. See 500W and 600W.
- Hybrid inverter: 5kW Deye, Growatt, or Voltronic single-phase. The 5kW rating matches the array; no need to oversize.
- Battery: 48V 200Ah LiFePO4 (10.24 kWh) covers an entire night of aircon use in 1-2 rooms. See the 48V 200Ah LFP page.
- Wiring: 8 AWG PV wire (string wiring), 2 AWG battery cable, DC isolators, AC breakers. The wire sizing chart covers exact gauges.
- Mounting: Aluminum rails sized for 9-10 panels — a substantial roof project. Two-person mounting or hire help.
- For grid-tie / net metering: Professional Electrical Engineer (PEE) signoff is required. See the net metering Philippines guide.
5kW vs 3kW — when the bigger size wins
5kW is meaningfully more roof, more panels, and more battery cost than 3kW. The jump only pays off if:
- Your Meralco bill is already 400+ kWh per month
- You run aircon 6+ hours per day (not just evening cooldown)
- You want enough headroom to cover EV charging or future electric cooking
- You have the roof space — 5kW is 25-30 m² of panel area
Confirm with the kWh calculator — upload your bill and it tells you whether 5kW is right-sized or overkill.
Configure a 5kW hybrid build
Pick panels, hybrid inverter, battery, and wiring in the DIY Builder. Compatibility checked automatically.